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Lyophilized MSC-EVs attenuates COVID-19 pathogenesis by regulating the JAK/STAT pathway
Nesrine Ebrahim1,2,3,4, Hajir A Al Saihati5, Zahraa Alali6
1Department of Medical Histology and Cell Biology Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt.
Stem Cell Research & Therapy
|May 14, 2025
Summary
Lyophilized Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Extracellular Vesicles (MSC-EVs) show potential in treating COVID-19 by inhibiting the JAK/STAT pathway. MSC-EVs reduced inflammation and improved outcomes in a hamster model, offering a promising therapeutic strategy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- The JAK/STAT pathway and associated cytokine storm are key in severe COVID-19.
- STAT3 promotes inflammation, making its inhibition a therapeutic target.
- Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Extracellular Vesicles (MSC-EVs) modulate immune responses via miRNA cargo.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of lyophilized MSC-EVs in inhibiting the JAK/STAT pathway in a COVID-19 model.
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of MSC-EVs for COVID-19 management.
Main Methods:
- Syrian hamsters were infected with SARS-CoV-2 and treated with lyophilized MSC-EVs.
- Lung tissues were analyzed via histopathology, morphometrics, and Western blotting.
- Viral titers and miRNA expression were assessed.
Main Results:
- MSC-EV administration upregulated specific miRNAs (e.g., miRNA-146a, miRNA-124) in lung tissue.
- MSC-EVs significantly impaired STAT3/STAT1 signaling pathway activation.
- Treatment reduced COVID-19-associated cytokine storm and coagulopathy.
Conclusions:
- MSC-EVs show potential to mitigate COVID-19 pathogenesis by targeting the JAK/STAT pathway.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate MSC-EV mechanisms and clinical applications for COVID-19.
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